. >>> president obama called himself one of the countless millions who drew inspiration from nelson mandela. he ordered flags at the white house and across the country to be lowered to half staff. karen travers has reaction from around the world. ♪ >> reporter: outside of the home where nelson mandela died, they sang in memory and mourning. >> great fighter, strong man. >> reporter: south africa's president delivered the long dreaded news. >> our nation has lost its greatest son. our people have lost their father. >> reporter: president obama praised the man he called a personal inspiration. >> we've lost one of the most influential, courageous and profoundly good human beings that any of us will share time with on this earth. >> reporter: that sense of historical loss ranged from royalty. >> extremely sad and tragic news. we are reminded what an extraordinary and inspiring man nelson mandela was. >> reporter: to regular people. >> is there a man who has more people aware of what he has contributed? >> reporter:. >> reporter: as a young man, nelson mandela faced daily humiliation of livin